Agenda item

Vote of thanks to James North (former Swordbearer)

Resolved unanimously - That, on the occasion of his recent departure from the City of London Corporation, this Court takes great pleasure in conveying to James North its sincere appreciation of his service to the Corporation and to this Court during the past four years as The Swordbearer.  As the principal adviser on ceremonial and protocol in Mansion House, James performed, at all times, his ceremonial duties with great confidence and panache.

The first non-military Swordbearer since at least 1957, in his capacity as Senior Programme Manager, a role that he had performed since 2008, James was very proactive in strengthening the Mansion House’s links with a broad range of external bodies including the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council. He also worked closely with the Foreign Commonwealth Office to streamline the Mayoral visits programming arrangements, advising senior officers and Members about the new programming agenda ahead of, and during, its introduction in 2016.  

As the first Chairman of the City Corporation’s LGBT Staff Network, James was indeed an assertive and vibrant diversity champion, leading the network’s meetings, priorities and work plans.

Members have valued and benefited from his professionalism and sound advice on a variety of issues.  James’ knowledge of ceremonial and protocol and his familiarity will be missed. The Members therefore welcome this opportunity to thank James for his contribution to the work of this Court and for the extremely capable way in which he has carried out the role of The Swordbearer over the past four years.  They warmly express the hope that he will retain many happy memories of his time spent with the City of London Corporation.